A strong earthquake measuring at least 5.8 on the Richter scale shook the western Greek Ionian island of Zakynthos Wednesday, the fifth earthquake to strike the region within 24-hours, according to dpa. According to the Thessaloniki Geodynamic Institute, two underwater earthquakes, one measuring 5.8 and another 5.4 shook the island. The first quake was recorded at 19:52 (1752 GMT) and the secondly shortly after at 19:56 (1756 GMT), with an epicentre 240 kilometres east of the Greek capital Athens. The Patras Geodyamic Institute, however, measured the quake at 6.1. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. It was the fifth such earthquake to strike the region within 24-hours. Four underwater earthquakes, the largest measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale have hit the region since the early hours Tuesday. Residents were alarmed throughout the island, and many rushed in panic outside their homes. Schools throughout the island have remained closed. "We were in our room when suddenly the earthquake struck," said journalist Stathis Keramikas. --SP 23 39 Local Time 20 39 GMT
